THERE'S an old showbiz superstition that to wish a performer good luck before they go on stage, you tell them to 'break a leg'.

And, unfortunately, that's what 17-year-old Laura McCue did days before taking the lead role in this week's Footloose Musicals' production of Disco Infer no at Ellesmere Port Civic Hall.

Laura was at a friend's birthday party on Friday when she had a go on the trampoline.

And on the second bounce, her leg was broken.

Laura's injury meant a sizeable headache for producers as any stand-in would have lots of lines and scores of songs to learn in the six days before the show opens tomorrow night.

But waiting in the wings was another highly talented young lady, Laura's best friend Jess Morris, also 17, who was more than equal to the challenge.

She was on stage for the dress rehearsal last night looking as if she was made for the key part of Maggie.

But equally at home in their roles are 47 other youngsters, aged from eight to 21, who make the Civic Hall swing to the sounds and dance moves of the 70s - the decade in which the piece is set.

There are 26 memorable songs, including Boogie Nights, Star Man and Crocodile Rock, all designed to make the place come alive - all given plenty of oomph by a nine-piece orchestra under the direction of Craig Price.

Choreography comes courtesy of Sue Hickman-Germon and the whole slice of fun comes under the skilful direction of Liz Legerton.

Rather than rows of seats, the audience sits at tables to give an easier, nightclub-style feel to the whole event.

* Disco Inferno is on tomorrow, Friday and Saturday nights, each show starting at 7.30pm. Tickets are £6. For more details, call 0151 355 1453.